Fire started by crimped power cord
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND - An electrical cord is being blamed for a fire that caused what officials believe to be irreparable damage to a house in western PEI.
There was no one in the O'Leary home at the time the fire started. It was called in by a neighbour at about 2:30 p.m.
Deputy fire marshal Dave Rossiter believes the cord was crimped from being jammed between the appliance and the wall, which caused it to fray.
"The only thing we'd probably make comment on is for people to watch where their electrical cords are, to make sure they're not crimped or pinched or jammed up against an appliance or something like that," Rossiter told CBC News.
"It might not happen right away, but over time it could create a problem and possible fire situation, as what happened in this particular case. Especially when you have an item like that that has a constant electrical draw all the time."
The fire started where there were stairwells leading both upstairs and down into the basement, allowing the fire to spread throughout the house.
Rossiter said the damage was extensive. He doesn't believe the house can be repaired, but added that will be up to the insurance company to decide.
Related News

Electricity prices may go up by 15 per cent
JERSEY CITY - Electricity prices could rise by ten to 15 per cent if a standby charge for some commercial customers is not implemented, the chief executive of Jersey Electricity has warned.
Jersey Electricity has proposed extending a monthly fee to commercial customers who generate their own power through renewable means but still wish to be connected to Jersey’s grid as a back-up.
The States recently unanimously backed a proposal lodged by Deputy Carolyn Labey to delay administering the levy until a review could be carried out. The charge, was due to be implemented next month but will now not be introduced until…